Ulster County Post Office Abruptly Closes, Now Senator Demands it Reopen

A Hudson Valley post office that has served the community for more than 130 years has been abruptly closed, and now a U.S. Senator is calling on the Postal Service to reopen it.

U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer is demanding that the United States Postal Service (USPS) restore operations at the West Park Post Office, which officially closed on July 24th, 2026. The closure has impacted approximately 170 post office box holders in the West Park community, who are now being forced to travel more than five miles to the Highland Post Office to pick up their mail.

West Park, NY Post Office

Post Office Abruptly Closed in West Park, NY

The USPS previously announced plans to close the West Park Post Office on Route 9W, leaving residents and local businesses concerned about how they would receive important mail. According to Schumer, the West Park Post Office isn't simply a place where people go to pick up their mail or drop off a package. He says it has been an important part of the community for generations.

Schumer says residents and small businesses rely on the post office for everything from medications and checks to bills, packages and other important mail.

"The West Park Post Office is more than a place where residents pick up mail and drop off packages; it’s the center of the community," Schumer said.

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The senator is now calling on USPS Postmaster General David Steiner to immediately work toward reopening the facility and to provide the community with a clear timeline. Schumer also criticized the lack of information provided to residents since the closure.

West Park Post Office

Schumer Wants Ulster County Post Office Reopened

In a letter to the Postal Service, Schumer pointed out that the alternative service at the Highland Post Office is more than five miles away for many West Park residents. He says that may not sound like a long distance to some people, but it can create a serious problem for residents in a rural community, particularly those who rely on the post office for medications and other important items.

"The West Park community has rallied against the closure of its gathering place," Schumer said, adding that USPS needs to work with local residents and other community stakeholders to find a solution.

Town of Esopus Supervisor Roscoe T. Pecora also thanked Schumer for stepping in and advocating for the community. "The West Park Post Office has been an important part of our hamlet for generations, providing essential services while serving as a place that connects neighbors and strengthens our community," Pecora said.

Schumer is now asking USPS to restore the West Park Post Office as quickly as possible and to communicate openly with residents about the process.

"West Park deserves a post office in West Park," Schumer said.